Maldives: Officials impose vehicle restrictions in Greater Male; nationwide state of public health emergency to continue until at least March 5 /update 32

Event

Maldivian authorities have imposed vehicle movement restrictions in Greater Male, including the capital Male and the nearby islands of Gulhifalhu, Hulhumale, Thilafushi, and Villimale, as part of the nation's ongoing effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. From Feb. 12 until further notice, nonessential vehicle movement in Greater Male is banned nightly between the hours of 1800-0600. Residents are also subject to a 2300-0430 curfew. Movement in public and business operations are suspended during curfew hours. No social gatherings are allowed in Greater Male; police permission is necessary for any events. The government has also imposed a 2000-0400 nightly curfew in Fuvahmulah City until further notice. A 2000-0400 nightly curfew is also in effect across Addu City through at least Feb. 16. Similar localized measures may be imposed in the coming days and weeks.

Officials plan to maintain the existing nationwide state of public health emergency and related domestic controls through at least March 5. All residents over two years of age must wear facemasks in public places, except when exercising. Establishments are required to ensure sanitation and social distancing. Authorities are advising businesses in locations with COVID-19 activity to minimize on-site work.

Individuals traveling from Greater Male, resorts, or any inhabited island with guesthouses to other parts of the Maldives must self-quarantine for 10 days upon arrival at their destination. Domestic quarantine requirements may be waived if individuals have recent negative COVID-19 test results. Tourist facilities across the Maldives are operational; however, foreign tourists require prior permission for split stays between accommodations and are subject to COVID-19 testing before traveling between regions. Officials may modify regulations based on a passenger's nationality and travel history. While resorts and approved guesthouses are open, officials may enforce temporary movement restrictions at such sites in the event of confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases.

Violators of COVID-19 restrictions face fines of up to MVR 5,000 (USD 325). Officials could amend measures at short notice, depending on COVID-19 activity.

International Travel Restrictions
International arrivals must submit an online health declaration via the "Imuga" portal within 24 hours before travel and produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a RT-PCR test taken within 96 hours prior to departure. Inbound foreign travelers must reserve accommodations at approved lodging establishments; split stays between facilities must be approved by the Ministry of Tourism at least two days before departure. Maldivian nationals and permanent residents must undergo a 10-day home quarantine. Quarantines are also required for all passengers who have spent at least 12 hours in the UK in the past 14 days. Quarantined individuals typically undergo COVID-19 tests on the fifth and tenth day. Some testing and quarantine exemptions apply for arriving international travelers whose medical histories show they have recovered from COVID-19. Any person staying for over 48 hours in the Greater Male region requires a pre-departure COVID-19 test within 72 hours before leaving the Maldives. Authorities have advised Maldivian citizens to refrain from all nonessential international travel.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm business appointments, deliveries, and travel arrangements, especially across Greater Male. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

Ministry of Health (English)
World Health Organization (WHO)
Imuga Health Declaration Portal
Ministry of Tourism Split Stay Application